What’s tethering?

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Tethering connects a mobile device to a computer to access the internet. It can be done with a cable or wirelessly, with Bluetooth or WiFi. Tethering requires resources and software.

Tethering is a process that involves establishing a connection between a cell phone or other mobile device and a computer. The connection can be created by using a cable to connect the mobile phone to the computer, or some type of wireless connection can provide the link. In both scenarios, the purpose of tethering is to allow your mobile device to access the Internet through its connection to your computer.

Cables are one of the oldest means of establishing this type of connection. In some cases, using a USB cable can create a secure connection that allows the mobile phone to take advantage of the speed of the computer. A serial cable can also be used for this type of connectivity. One major drawback to using cable tethering is that there is a limit to the distance you can have between your computer and your cell phone or PDA.

Wireless applications have become more reliable over the years and are now the most flexible means of connecting a mobile device to a laptop or desktop computer. Infrared wireless applications provide a strong connection that allows the end user to move further away from the computer, although the range can be somewhat limited. A better option today is to use Bluetooth® wireless technology to establish the connection between the two devices.

Many people use tethering without knowing it. WiFi connectivity is the latest means of tethering. Essentially, the connection can be made through a WiFi hot spot and routed through a network to establish the connection to the computer. As a result, the two devices may be close together or have a substantial distance between the two.

Tethering in all its forms can help the end user enjoy a greater degree of efficiency and convenience. While a connection over a physical cable is still somewhat limiting, the evolution of wireless technology has made tethering a viable option for people who have never considered this approach to accessing the Internet before.
It is important to remember that the tethering process requires a certain amount of resources for both devices. You also need to ensure that there is software in place to allow the connection, especially in a wireless environment.




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